Intro to Graphite Pencil Drawing

n this course, you will learn how to accurately draw from a simple reference photo using a range of graphite pencils, and I hope you will have fun doing it. It's meant to be lighthearted, but also with focus on precision in order to furnish you with a new set of tools for your toolbox

In order to take this course, you will need at least 2-4 graphite pencils in a range of values (lightness and darkness). I'll talk about how to find and select these in the "Materials" section of the course. Additionally, you'll need a flat surface to draw on, tape, an eraser, a pencil sharpener, an 8.5" x 11" or similar sized piece of drawing paper, a ruler to draw your 8" x 6" frame drawn on the paper, a high-quality printout of the reference image for this course, and a small square of white paper with a tiny hole cut in the middle (fold in half to cut out hole). Lastly you'll need an open mind and a positive attitude!

You will be carefully supported and guided through the entire process, from discussing which materials you will need and how to select them, to set-up, then onto accurate measuring in order to replicate the image realistically. From there we will walk through how to add value including shading and mark-making, in a way that allows for the entire image to be built up simultaneously, resulting in a cohesive, rich and beautifully finished drawing. When we are finished, you will walk away with a new set of skills you can use to create more beautiful drawings.

My hope is that you find the process and outcome as enriching as I do, and that it both ignites and feeds a spark of creativity for you. Enjoy and be merry!